Jose Mourinho has reportedly informed Real Madrid that he requires between four and six new signings to strengthen the squad, with a particular emphasis on defensive reinforcements. According to Diario AS, the Portuguese manager is targeting one or two centre-backs, one or two full-backs, a defensive midfielder, and a creative midfielder.
Mourinho's Return to Madrid
The 'Special One' is set to return to the Spanish capital on a three-year contract, aiming to revive a club that has gone trophyless for the past two seasons. His arrival could increase competition for players like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Jude Bellingham, and the entire squad is reportedly on edge. Notably, none of Madrid's Spanish stars were deemed good enough for the World Cup.
Diario AS reports that Mourinho, whose move from Benfica has not yet been officially announced, has handed Madrid a document detailing his requirements without specific player names. The club is facing the departures of Dani Carvajal and David Alaba on expiring contracts, while the futures of Antonio Rudiger, Dani Ceballos, and Eduardo Camavinga remain uncertain.
Contractual and Financial Details
Mourinho, who managed Los Blancos between 2010 and 2013, winning one LaLiga title, a Copa del Rey, and a Supercopa de Espana, is contracted to Benfica for another year. With his release clause now expired, Madrid would need to pay upwards of £12 million in compensation to secure his services, according to Portuguese reports. His official unveiling is likely to occur only after Florentino Perez wins the club's presidential elections.
Staff Changes and Club Dynamics
There will be significant upheaval at the Santiago Bernabeu this summer, and Mourinho will not have the support of Alvaro Arbeloa, who has managed the team since January. Arbeloa confirmed he will not stay to work under the Portuguese, stating, 'Mourinho has a fantastic coaching staff; he’s surrounded by great people. If he comes, he’ll bring his own team, as he should. There’s no chance I’ll be joining him. I’ve spent the last four months thinking about Madrid; from now on, it’s time to think about myself. I’ve taken the leap, and I feel ready for new challenges.'
Club president Florentino Perez has long admired Mourinho since his first spell at the Bernabeu, and they have remained close. Mourinho, who has not won a league title in 11 years, steps into a crisis club after a season marred by internal conflicts, an early Champions League exit, and Barcelona dominating LaLiga.
Reactions from Club Legends
One of Mourinho's most vocal critics has been club legend Iker Casillas, who was dropped as first-choice goalkeeper during Mourinho's previous tenure. Casillas wrote on X, 'I have no problem with Mourinho. I think he's a great professional. I just don't want him at Real Madrid. I believe other coaches would be better suited to manage the club I love. That's just my personal opinion. Nothing more.'
However, Arbeloa expressed a different view last week, saying, 'For me, as a player and a Real Madrid fan, I think Mourinho is number one. I thought that a month ago when we played him in the Champions League (with Benfica), and I'll continue to think it. Jose is, and always will be, "one of us". If he's here next season, I'll be very happy to see him back home.'
